The Best Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

This homemade baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring creamy, cheesy goodness with a perfectly crispy, golden-brown topping. Made with simple ingredients and baked to perfection, it’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, holidays, or any special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and rich with a perfect cheese-to-pasta ratio
• Golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping adds texture
• Easy to customize with different cheeses or add-ins
• Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday feasts

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Elbow macaroni
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper
• Paprika (optional for garnish)
• Breadcrumbs (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Reduce heat to low, then add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Meaty Addition: Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or ground beef.
• Veggie Boost: Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with Gouda, Gruyère, or Fontina for unique flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

What is the best cheese for baked mac and cheese?

A combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan offers a creamy texture and rich flavor.

Can I make baked mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding extra baking time if needed.

How do I keep baked mac and cheese creamy?

Use a mix of milk and heavy cream, and avoid overbaking to retain creaminess.

Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?

Yes, cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat in the oven.

What pasta works best for mac and cheese?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but shells, cavatappi, or penne work well too.

How do I make the topping extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crunchier texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Add cooked chicken, bacon, or ground beef for extra protein.

What spices can I add for more flavor?

Try mustard powder, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for added depth.

How do I prevent the mac and cheese from drying out?

Don’t overbake, and consider covering with foil for part of the baking time.

Conclusion

The best homemade baked mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make and even easier to love. Enjoy experimenting with variations to make it your own!

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